Information for travelling to Guanajuato

Right in the heart of Mexico, in a beautiful mining valley surrounded by the Sierra de Guanajuato Mountains, rests Guanajuato- the capital city of the homonymous state.  It is not surprising that Guanajuato was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988. Narrow streets paved with stone and an old architecture grant this colonial city an interesting antique look that conquers the heart of its visitors. If you’re interested in history and culture, you should travel to Guanajuato at least once in your life to discover the magic that lies in its narrow alleys and its impressive Baroque buildings.

Having some basic information for travelling to Guanajuato will help you to take the most of your trip and enjoy an unforgettable vacation in this city full of history, culture, and legends.

The first thing to do in Guanajuato is walk its cobblestone streets to admire the old Baroque and Neoclassical buildings of the old Historic Center. The must-see are the Alhóndiga de Granaditas (site of the first victory over the Spaniards in 1810), Juarez Theater (departure spot of the popular “Callejoneadas” and home to the Cervantino International Festival), the Mummies Museum (where more than 100 natural mummies are showcased), San Diego de Alcantara Temple (a fine example of the Mexican Baroque, or Chirrugueresque, architectural style) and the Diego Rivera House Museum (a beautiful 18th Century house where the Mexican painter was born).

Lovers of legends and myths will learn many interesting stories in Guanajuato. At the Guanajuato Legend Museum you can hear fabulous stories that have passed from one generation to the other, like the legend of the General, the Junk Shop, the Snort and the mummies. Let magic carry you away and kiss your mate on the third step of the “Callejón del Beso” (the Alley of the Kiss) to guarantee that your love will last forever.  Make sure to travel the incredible underground tunnels and the Hidalgo Market; visit the silver mines of La Valenciana and Mineral de Rayas; and don’t forget to pay a visit to the nearby cities of Leon and San Miguel de Allende.

If you’re seeking for some adventure, you can go trekking or camping; visit the beautiful Las Palomas Recreational Park; or take a biking tour to the mountains to explore the old haciendas and ghost towns lost amidst the jungle. You can also enjoy a marvelous hang gliding or a balloon ride over the cities and mountains to admire its beauty from above.

In Guanajuato, you must taste the traditional Bajio Cuisine, including its “enchiladas mineras”, the “Guanajuato pacholas”, “chalupas” and “tamales”.  Some traditional beverages to try are the “cebadina”, beetroot juice and strawberry liquor; and the most popular candies include “charamuscas”, “Irapuato strawberries” and “Celaya milk caramel”.

Book your hotel online and spend a different Mexican vacation at the city known as the “Mexican Gateway”. Learn all about its marvelous culture, its history and traditions; travel the mining route; stroll its alleys and admire its old buildings; spend a day in the Union Square and let magic run through your veins. Guanajuato is full of magic… You’ll see.

Cecilia Vittori
Image: Flickr (author: jj.figueroa)